Dolly Parton’s sister Stella Parton is speaking out against the online response that has followed her sibling’s death.
In a lengthy Instagram statement shared Friday, September 4, Stella, 77, criticized what she described as “AI and endless garbage,” as well as “snarky tweets,” circulating across social media.
“Sadly, because of the way our lives have been lived in front of the public, we have no choice but to be subjected to incredible pressure and insensitivity from strangers,” Stella wrote. “There is a tremendous amount of AI and endless garbage being posted everyday and it’s been challenging to absorb and or ignore.”
Stella said she remains grateful to fans offering “genuine” love and support as Dolly’s family mourns, but she also called on anyone “exploiting” the loss to reconsider their approach and choose compassion instead.
“I ask that you show more compassion and wisdom as we move forward in life. Use my sister’s life as an example for tolerance and respect toward others,” she wrote. “It’s not about the most clever comments, fake AI garbage or snarky tweets.”
Stella continued, “At the end of the day or the end of a life, how will you feel about yourself? It’s not about what other individuals you will never meet think of you!”

Dolly and Stella Parton. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)
Dolly was known for her positivity in life, and Stella asked followers to channel some of that personality trait that the “Jolene” singer embodied.
READ MORE: Lindsay Clancy Mistrial: Legal Expert Explains What Happens Next
“My sister was a positive influence to the world into which she was born. She used her music as a tool and a passion to move people in a positive way,” she wrote, explaining that Dolly believed negativity was “nothing but a huge waste of positive energy.”
Us confirmed that Dolly died on August 25, after a brief battle with an undisclosed form of cancer. She was 80.
“Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright and author, died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee,” Dolly’s rep said in a statement last month. “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth and kindness that made us all feel like family.”
Two days after her death, Stella broke her silence via Instagram.
“My big sister Dolly got her wings this past Tuesday. If anyone gets to heaven, I’m sure she made it right on time,” she wrote on August 27. “I know she’s showing out big time, in all her sparkles and shine. That was my sister’s way.”

